A new probability-based standard setting technique, the Objective Borderline Method (OBM), was introduced recently. This was based on a mathematical model of how test scores relate to student ability. The present study refined the model and tested it using 2500 simulated data-sets. The OBM was feasible to use. On average, the OBM performed well…

Over recent years, UK medical schools have moved to more integrated summative examinations. This paper analyses data from the written assessment of undergraduate medical students to investigate two key psychometric aspects of this type of high-stakes assessment. Firstly, the strength of the relationship between examiner predictions of item…

Examined a method of student self- and peer assessment involving student construction of grading criteria using exemplars. Found that the use of exemplars can help students demonstrate greater understanding of both grading criteria and subject standards, and that the use of exemplars forms a focus for meaningful formative feedback. (EV)